Botafogo, Corinthians take Brazil state titles

Botafogo secured their 21st Rio de Janeiro state championship on Sunday by defeating Vasco da Gama on penalties.

Argentine defender Joel Carli scored in second-half injury time at the Maracana stadium to level the tie after Vasco's 1-0 victory in last week's first leg.

Vasco pair Werley and Henrique both had their spot-kicks saved by Gatito Fernandez as Botafogo won 4-3 on penalties.

Meanwhile, Corinthians also won a penalty shootout against Palmeiras 4-3 to claim their 29th Sao Paulo state championship.

Rodriguino equalized by prodding in after a Mateus Vital cross following Palmeiras' 1-0 victory in the first leg.

Goalkeeper Casio denied Dudu and Lucas Lima as Corinthians prevailed 4-3 in the shootout.

And Cruzeiro won the Minas Gerais state title on away goals by defeating Atletico Mineiro 2-0 after a 3-1 loss in last week's first leg.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)